Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

1. Add the remaining olive oil to the skillet.
2. Toss in the sliced onion and bell peppers.
3. Cook for 5–7 minutes until softened and lightly caramelized.
4. Stir in the minced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes.
5. Cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

This step builds the aromatic base of the entire dish.

Step 4: Deglaze With Wine

1. Pour in the wine, scraping up all the browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pan (this is pure flavor!).
2. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes to allow the alcohol to cook off and the liquid to reduce.

Step 5: Build the Tomato Sauce

1. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, and sugar.
2. Add the browned sausage back into the skillet.
3. Reduce the heat to medium and let everything simmer for 8–10 minutes so the flavors meld together.
4. Add salt and black pepper to taste.

Step 6: Combine the Noodles & Sauce

1. Add the cooked noodles directly into the skillet.
2. Toss everything together until the pasta is fully coated in the luscious sauce.
3. If the mixture seems too thick, add a splash of pasta water or broth.

Step 7: Finish With Fresh Herbs

Just before serving, sprinkle in chopped basil and parsley. Their freshness brightens the entire dish.

🍷✨ Serving Tips

• Top with freshly grated Parmesan for added richness.
• For a spicier version, use hot Italian sausage and extra chili flakes.
• Serve with garlic bread or a simple green salad.
• A glass of crisp Pinot Grigio or a bold Chianti pairs beautifully.

💬 Final Thoughts

Italian Drunken Noodles is a warm, flavor-packed fusion dish that proves comfort food doesn’t need to be complicated. With its wine-infused sauce, aromatic veggies, and hearty noodles, it brings restaurant-quality flavors right to your kitchen—any night of the week.

If you’d like, I can help you with:
✅ A printable version
✅ A lighter/healthier version
✅ A vegetarian version
✅ Substitutions for ingredients you don’t have

Just tell me!